Hello, Awesomek subscribers! As a foodie, whenever I see places or dishes featured on variety shows, I just have to check them out. This time, I delved into the recent episode of I Live Alone featuring SHINee’s Key, where he embarked on a nostalgic journey with his old military buddies, explored the Dongmyo Flea Market, and traveled with Dennygu. Given Key’s trendsetting reputation, I was excited to explore these spots myself. For all Key fans out there, let’s dive into these must-visit places together!
Located at 173 Bangbae Central Road, Seocho-gu, Seoul, Jo Ga Ne Cuttlefish is a spot that Key used to frequent with his bandmates from his time in the military band. Open daily from 10 AM to 10 PM (with a brief break time, so be sure to check the schedule!), this place serves up the most tender and thickly sliced cuttlefish sashimi (₩25,000). The combination with bulgogi is truly exceptional. And let’s not forget the freshly fried cuttlefish tempura—crispy and perfectly light. Paired with their sweet and savory sauce, it’s absolutely divine. If you’re looking to relive the camaraderie of shared moments, this is a perfect spot to create special memories!
Located at 79 Nangye-ro 25-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Dongmyo Flea Market is a treasure trove of retro items and second-hand goods. From vintage clothing to quirky items from the 1980s, it’s a haven for those seeking hidden gems. The Y2K aesthetic is back in vogue, and this market is the ultimate place to find it. Key also explored the nearby Hwanghakdong’s Jeong Eunjunja shop, marveling at colorful retro gadgets like the iconic gold-star TV, which would captivate anyone with its nostalgic charm. At 'Jinmyeong Company,' he checked out retro cameras and old-school digital cameras—perfect for those wanting to capture that nostalgic grainy look. If you’re into that classic, slightly fuzzy film aesthetic, this shop is a must-visit!
A visit to Myeongbong Dakgalbi Makguksu in Chuncheon, Gangwon Province, is an absolute must! Located at 271 Geumchon Road, Dong-myeon, this place offers a budget-friendly taste of traditional Korean dishes like dakgalbi (₩15,000) and makguksu (₩9,000). The dakgalbi here strikes a perfect balance—spicy yet not overly intense. Pair it with their makguksu and fried rice (₩3,000), and you have a hearty, delicious meal. During Key and Dennygu’s Chuncheon trip, they showcased the delightful chewiness and sweet-spicy flavors of the dish. And if you're like me, adjusting the makguksu with a touch of sugar or sesame oil can truly elevate the flavors. On the show, they even tried the boneless dakgalbi with an added option of giblets, giving me new ideas to try next time!
I hope this Seoul exploration guide inspires you to create your own unique stories on your travels. If this helps enrich your journey, I’d be delighted!
